New Zealand’s second-string team hammered Pakistan in the second ODI in Hamilton to secure a series by a 2-0 lead in the 3-match series. This loss adds another chapter to the downfall of the Pakistan cricket team. After losing the 5-match T20I series by 4-1, now the team has lost both the ODI, losing the series before the decider itself.
Batting first, Kiwis posted 292/8 in 50 overs. In reply, Pakistan fought but bundled up at 208 runs in 41.2 overs, losing the match by 84 runs. The disappointment came mostly because of the batters, as the team lost their first five wickets at the score of 32.
ODI series secured in Hamilton! A maiden ODI five-wicket bag for Ben Sears (5-59) and career-best ODI figures for Jacob Duffy (3-35) helps bowl out the visitors for 208. Catch-up on all scores | https://t.co/6hz577JnyD
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) April 2, 2025#NZvPAK #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/mRi2TOYyr1
Babar-Rizwan both out scoring in single digits
Pakistan’s top order collapsed miserably as the team lost five wickets for just 32 runs. Abdullah Shafique (1), Babar Azam (1), and Imam-ul-Haq (3) fell cheaply, failing to counter New Zealand’s bowling in Hamilton. Even the captain, Mohammad Rizwan (5) and Pakistan’s one of top batters, Salman Agha (9) also departed soon, leaving Pakistan in deep trouble. With poor shot selection and lack of application, the top order crumbled, just praying for a lower margin loss.
Faheem Ashraf saves from humiliation
Faheem Ashraf played a fighting knock of 73 runs off 80 balls, keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive in a tough situation and saving them from humiliation. Coming in when wickets were falling, he showed patience and played some powerful shots, hitting six fours and three sixes. He reached his half-century with a six but eventually edged one to the keeper while trying to guide the ball past the fielders.
Mitchell Hay shines for Kiwis
New Zealand posted 292/8 in 50 overs, led by Mitchell Hay’s explosive 99* off 78 balls. Nick Kelly (31) and Muhammad Abbas (41) provided support, but Pakistan’s bowlers kept striking regularly. Mohammad Wasim and Sufiyan Muqeem took two wickets each. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Hay’s powerful hitting in the death overs pushed the total past 290, giving New Zealand a strong position in the match.
